ANTICIPATING THE ARRIVAL OF HOPE (5)
TIMES OF REFRESHING ONLINE DAILY DEVOTIONAL www.thefountspring.org
DATE: MONDAY, 11 DECEMBER 2023
Seemingly, as we anticipate the arrival of hope and the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us reflect on “Mary’s joyful surrender.” Imagine the joy that must have filled Mary’s heart as she carried the Savior of the world within her. Despite the uncertainties and challenges, she embraced her role in God’s plan with a surrendered and joyful spirit. This is a testament of humble obedience and joy in the midst of challenges.
SCRIPTURE: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel (which means, God with us).”– Matthew 1:23 (ESV)
REFRESHING FOR THE DAY: How can we, like Mary, find joy in surrendering to God’s purpose for our lives, even when it seems beyond our understanding? Despite the potential challenges that lay ahead – social stigma, misunderstanding, and the unconventional nature of her pregnancy – Mary’s surrender was accompanied by joy. This joy was rooted in her trust that God’s plan, though unconventional, was perfect and filled with purpose. We shall continue tomorrow, but till then, Stay Refreshed!
NOTE THIS: Mary’s surrender was not passive but active. She willingly allowed herself to be used as an instrument in God’s redemptive plan.
RESPONSIBILITY: So, beloved, let’s ask God for the grace of joyful surrender in our lives and purpose.
PRAYER: O GOD, as we journey through this season of hope, fill our hearts with joyful expectation, and cause us to surrender to Your divine will and purpose, in the name of Jesus’ Amen!
PROPHETIC WORD: As we anticipate the celebration of Christ’s birth, may we like Mary, joyfully surrender to God’s will and purpose in our lives, in the name of Jesus’ Amen!
BIBLE TEXTS: Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23
As always, thanks for reading and until next time. May today’s Times of Refreshing refresh, encourage and empower you! For more please visit: www.thefountspring.org or contact us on contact@thefountspring.org
